Saima Akhter, a former data analyst at Meta; Hossam Nasr, a former software engineer at Microsoft; and Tariq Ra’ouf, a former tech expert at Apple, discuss their courageous fight against Big Tech's suppression of pro-Palestinian voices. They expose systemic censorship within these companies and the personal repercussions they faced for speaking out. Tariq highlights how pro-Palestinian messages were targeted while harmful rhetoric went unchecked. The trio reflects on the ethical dilemmas of corporate complicity in geopolitical conflicts, emphasizing the urgent need for transparency and advocacy.

Rev. Munther Isaac, Pastor at the Evangelical Lutheran Christmas Church in Bethlehem, provides a poignant view on the true meaning of Christmas amidst ongoing suffering in Palestine. He discusses the connections between Jesus' story and the struggles of refugees today, emphasizing that Christmas must be a message of empathy and social justice. Through the lens of the Good Samaritan, he challenges the divisive nature of tribalism, reminding us that everyone is a neighbor, and urges a critical look at how faith interacts with activism in the context of modern conflicts.

Dr. Gabor Maté, a renowned physician renowned for his insights on trauma and childhood development, discusses the ongoing trauma faced by Palestinians in Gaza. He articulates the psychological impact of genocide and how it shapes resilience and moral sensibility. Delving into historical examples, Maté explores how ordinary individuals can become perpetrators of violence due to moral fragmentation stemming from their own traumas. The conversation emphasizes the importance of personal well-being in advocacy and the collective journey toward healing.

Alastair Crooke, a former British diplomat and Middle East expert, discusses the dramatic fall of Bashar al-Assad and its broad implications. He examines the role of rebel groups like Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and the strategic ambitions of Turkey and Israel in the region. The conversation delves into Syria's ongoing civil war and the dire humanitarian crisis it has caused. Crooke also critiques U.S.-Iran tensions, illustrating how geopolitical maneuvering continues to shape the Middle East's future amidst ongoing conflicts.

Matt Kennard, an investigative journalist and co-founder of Declassified UK, dives deep into the dark side of the American Empire. He discusses his book, revealing how U.S. intervention often masks exploitation under the guise of democracy. Kennard shares insights from Bolivia’s struggle for sovereignty and critiques the complicity of mainstream media in promoting imperial narratives. He also examines the UK-US dynamic and highlights how corporate interests shape perceptions around sensitive issues like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Jordan Elgrably, a Franco-American writer and founder of the Marquez Review, discusses the emotional weight of Middle Eastern narratives in this insightful conversation. He unveils stories that reveal the humanity often obscured by conflict. They explore themes like exile, identity struggles of immigrants, and the stark realities of class disparity. Elgrably emphasizes the power of literature to elevate marginalized voices, critiquing the romanticized views of immigration and advocating for deeper understanding of cultural complexities.

Nolan Higdon and Allison Butler, co-authors of "Surveillance Education," delve into the alarming reality of surveillance technologies in schools. They highlight how tools designed for safety often infringe on student privacy and disproportionately affect marginalized groups. Higdon discusses the idea of treating students as data points within a surveillance capitalist framework. Butler underscores the lack of consent students face, revealing the darkness behind the tech marketed for educational purposes. Their insights raise critical questions about privacy rights and the ethics of modern education.

Jeremy Loffredo, a reporter for The Grayzone, shares his gripping experiences from Israel and the occupied territories. He recounts his harrowing three-day detention after covering missile attacks, revealing the dangers journalists face amidst extreme censorship. Loffredo describes shocking attitudes he encountered, where he witnessed racism and genocidal rhetoric among Israelis. He highlights the plight of Palestinians, particularly a brave woman who spoke out despite fear of reprisal, underscoring the resilience versus the brutal realities of the ongoing conflict.

Kshama Sawant, a socialist activist and former Seattle City Council member renowned for her work on workers' rights, discusses the pivotal 2024 election and the formation of Workers Strike Back. She argues for a strong anti-war movement and critiques the complicity of major parties in ongoing conflicts. Sawant emphasizes the importance of honest campaigning, suggesting even a small vote for candidates like Jill Stein can galvanize the working class. She shares insights from her victory for a $15 minimum wage, highlighting grassroots activism's power in transforming political landscapes.

Col. Lawrence Wilkerson, a retired Army colonel and former chief of staff to Colin Powell, joins the discussion with his wealth of experience on American foreign policy. He predicts a Trump presidency will emphasize a reluctance for war yet notes his unwavering support for Israel, raising fears of a potential conflict with Iran. The conversation delves into the ideological rifts within Trump’s administration, the U.S. military’s discontent, and the complex impact of nationalism on foreign policy strategy, particularly concerning Ukraine and the Middle East.